Kalanchoe 
Flora Frost Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Aurora
| Leaf arrangement | crosswise opposite |
| Leaf tip | Blunt/obtuse |
| Leaf margin | Erose |
| Leaf, general shape | Ovate (egg-shaped) |
| Plant height | 5 - 10 cm |
| Leaf width | 5 - 7,5 cm |
| Leaf surface | Smooth |
| Leaf size | 7,5 - 10 cm |
| Leaf division | Simple |
| Leaf, main color | Green-dark brown green-NN137A |
| Leaf colour, pattern | Bicolored; Marginate |
| Leaf, secondary color(s) | Yellow-light yellow-004D |
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, also known as Flaming Katy or Tom Thumb, is a popular houseplant known for its beautiful flowers and attractive foliage. This compact plant is a great choice for small spaces or as a desktop or tabletop decoration.
One of the first things you'll notice about Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Aurora is its unique leaf arrangement. The leaves are crosswise opposite, meaning they grow in pairs that are positioned directly across from each other on the stem. This gives the plant a balanced and symmetrical appearance.
The leaves of this variety have a blunt or obtuse tip, meaning they are rounded or slightly flattened at the end. The leaf margin, or edge, is erose, which means it is uneven or jagged, adding texture to the overall look of the plant.
The general shape of the leaves is ovate or egg-shaped, with a width ranging from 5 to 7.5 centimeters. The smooth leaf surface gives the plant a sleek and glossy appearance. The size of the leaves is relatively large, ranging from 7.5 to 10 centimeters in length.
The coloration of the foliage is another striking feature of Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Aurora. The main color of the leaves is a dark brownish-green shade, known as NN137A. However, the leaf color can vary depending on factors such as light intensity and nutrient availability. The leaves also have a bicolored pattern, with a marginate effect. This means that the edges of the leaves are a different color than the rest of the leaf surface. In the case of Aurora, the secondary color is a light yellow shade, specifically 004D.
In addition to its attractive foliage, Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Aurora is also known for its vibrant and long-lasting flowers. The flowers can come in a range of colors, including red, pink, orange, and yellow, and they are displayed in dense clusters above the foliage.
Care for Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Aurora is relatively easy, making it a popular choice for beginner gardeners. It prefers bright but indirect light, so placing it near a window with filtered light is ideal. The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry, and excess water should be drained to prevent root rot. Temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 24 degrees Celsius) are ideal for this plant. Infrequent fertilization with a balanced houseplant fertilizer is also recommended to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
In conclusion, Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Aurora, with its crosswise opposite leaf arrangement, ovate-shaped leaves, and bicolored foliage, is a unique and striking houseplant choice. Its compact size and easy care requirements make it suitable for various indoor spaces, while its long-lasting flowers add a burst of color to any room. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or new to houseplants, Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Aurora is sure to bring beauty and joy to your home.
Market availability index by month:
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 |